If you are researching car safety, chances are you are looking for a vehicle that can protect your life. The Renault Kwid is a popular option because of its budget-friendly SUV-like look. But what about safety?
Does the Renault Kwid’s safety rating hold up in real-world scenarios? Its Global NCAP crash test explores key safety features, and how it compares to the competitors in the same segment.
Let’s break the rating down in simple language. So that you know if the Kwid is worth your money or if it’s time to look for something else.
Why Should You Care About the Kwid’s Safety?
India is not exactly known for its safest roads. With unpredictable traffic and conditions, having a car with solid safety features literally adds an extra life. While the Renault Kwid has show-worthy looks, its safety performance is not quite promising. Let’s check out the hard facts.
Global NCAP Safety Ratings for Renault Kwid
The Global NCAP (a global organisation that tests how safe cars are) recently gave the Renault Kwid a 1-star safety rating.
Adult Occupant Protection
- Rating: 1 Star
- Score: 8.28/17
The Global NCAP frontal crash test exposed several vulnerabilities in the Renault Kwid’s design:
- Airbag Performance: The driver’s airbag did a decent job protecting the head and neck. However, the chest protection was deemed insufficient due to high chest compression.
- Structural Integrity: The body shell was rated as unstable. While Renault reinforced the driver’s side, the passenger side remained unchanged. It will not hold up well in a severe crash.
- Knee Impact Risk: The dashboard design increases the risk of injury to the knees in a collision.
Child Occupant Protection
- Rating: 1 Star
- Score: 10.91/49
Key observations for child safety included:
- Forward Movement: The child restraint system (CRS) for a 3-year-old failed in preventing forward movement and injury.
- Head Contact: The head of the 18-month-old dummy contacted the front seat, reflecting poor protection.
- Installation Issues: The absence of ISOFIX anchors and inadequate CRS installation instructions compounded the risks.
Visual Proof: Watch the Renault Kwid crash test here.
Renault Kwid Safety Features: What’s on Offer?
Renault has fitted the Kwid with several safety features. However, these features are basic and vary across variants:
| Feature | Description |
| Dual Airbags | Standard on higher trims, these airbags protect the driver and passenger during a head-on crash. |
| Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) | Prevents wheel lockup during sudden braking and distributes braking force effectively. |
| Electronic Stability Program (ESP) | Improves stability during abrupt manoeuvres. |
| Traction Control System (TCS) | Reduces wheel spinning on slippery roads for better control. |
| Hill Start Assist | Stops the car from rolling backwards on slopes (only on AMT models). |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Tighten the seatbelt in a crash to keep you from lunging forward. |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Makes reversing less stressful by detecting obstacles behind the car. |
| Child Safety Locks | Keeps kids from opening the rear doors while the car is moving. |
These features sound good, but they lose their impact because of Kwid’s weak body structure and limited child safety provisions.
Key Specifications of Renault Kwid
| Specification | Details |
| Engine | 1.0-litre SCe MT |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual/AMT |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Mileage | 21.46–22.3 km/l |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Boot Space | 279 litres |
| Ground Clearance | 184 mm |
| Price Range | ₹4.70 Lakh to ₹6.45 Lakh |
How Does the Renault Kwid Compare to Its Competitors?
To provide a clearer perspective, let’s compare the Kwid with its closest competitors:
| Car | NCAP Rating (Adult/Child) | Starting Price (₹) | Key Strengths |
| Renault Kwid | 1 Star / 1 Star | 4.70 Lakh | Budget-friendly, stylish design |
| Tata Punch | 5 Star / 4 Star | 5.99 Lakh | Exceptional safety, robust build |
| Maruti Suzuki Alto | 2 Star / 2 Star | 3.54 Lakh | Affordable, reliable |
| Maruti Suzuki Ignis | 3 Star / 3 Star | 5.82 Lakh | Compact, well-equipped for city driving |
The Tata Punch outperforms the Kwid in terms of safety by complete 4 stars.
Should You Buy the Renault Kwid?
It depends on what matters to you.
Why You Might Consider It:
- You have a restrictive budget.
- You want a car with bold looks and good mileage (21.46–22.3 km/l).
- You mostly drive in the city and are not too worried about highway safety.
Why You Should Think Twice:
- The 1-star safety rating is not great, especially for family trips.
- Competitors like the Tata Punch offer way better safety for just a bit more money.
- If you are planning to drive with kids, the Kwid’s lack of proper child safety features is concerning.
Pro Tips for Enhancing Safety in the Renault Kwid
If you still want the Kwid, here’s how to turn it safer:
- Go for a Higher Variant: Choose models with dual airbags, ABS, and ESP for better protection.
- Invest in a Quality Child Seat: Get a high-quality CRS to ensure better child safety.
- Drive Smart: Stick to speed limits, avoid sudden braking, and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.
- Regular Maintenance: Check brakes, seatbelts, and airbags during routine service.
Final Verdict: Is the Renault Kwid Worth It?
The Renault Kwid is a solid choice if you seek affordability and mileage with modern design. But its 1-star NCAP rating makes it less attractive than its rivals.
It will definitely serve its purpose as an easy city ride. However, for highway routes and family outings, spend a bit more to get a safer car is adviced.
In the end, it’s about safeguarding the most important asset: the lives of your loved ones. Choose wisely!
FAQs: What People Ask About the Renault Kwid Safety Rating
- What is the NCAP rating of Renault Kwid?
The Renault Kwid has a 1-star rating for adult and child protection in Global NCAP. - Does the Kwid come with ISOFIX child seat mounts?
No, the Kwid lacks ISOFIX mounts, which majorly affects child safety. - Is the Renault Kwid good for families?
A: If safety is your priority, look for alternatives like the Tata Punch. - How can I make the Renault Kwid safer for my family?
Opt for higher variants with additional safety features, and use a CRS for child passengers. - Are there safer alternatives to the Renault Kwid in the same price range?
Yes, the Tata Punch and Maruti Suzuki Ignis offer higher safety ratings and robust build quality. - Are the safety features enough for city driving?
A: For basic city driving, yes. However, the structural instability is a concern even at lower speeds.
Q. Which Renault model is the safest?
A: The Renault Kiger and Triber have better safety ratings (4 stars).